WWE legend Ultimate Warrior dead at 54

Celebrating his recent induction into the WWE Hall of Fame 2014, Ultimate Warrior addresses the WWE fans on 'RAW' in what would be his final televised appearance.

WWE

WWE legendary wrestler Ultimate Warrior passed away today at the age of 54. The sad news was confirmed officially by WWE late Tuesday night. TMZ reports that Warrior collapsed outside of an Arizona hotel earlier on Tuesday afternoon, when he was walking to his car with his wife. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

WWE

The timing of the Warrior's passing could not be anymore tragic as he had just celebrated being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2014 as part of the wrestling company's Wrestlemania 30 festivities. Warrior whose real name was Jim Helwig before legally changing it to Warrior, made his first appearance on WWE RAW since 1996 this past Monday in New Orleans. It would be his last wrestling-related appearance, but the former WWE Intercontinental Champion was set to become an ambassador for WWE in a marketing role.

Several WWE stars have taken to social media to respond to the passing of this wrestling icon.

We are all so sad that the Ultimate Warrior has passed away. Our heart is with his wife Dana and his two daughters. -@VinceMcMahon

Saddened to announce the passing of the Ultimate Warrior. Icon and friend. My sympathy to his wife Dana and his daughters -@TripleH

Loss always has a way of reminding us to live and love as greatly as we can. My prayers and strength to his family.RIP Ultimate Warrior. -@TheRock

The Ultimate Warrior will be remembered as one of the most engaging and colorful characters in WWE history. The muscle-bound Warrior came from a single parent home, wrestling in his early days as 'the Dingo Warrior' before evolving into the Ultimate Warrior in 1987 with WWE where he became a household name. His career highlight is widely considered his victory over Hulk Hogan at Wrestlemania VI in Toronto, winning the WWE Championship. Warrior became the first superstar to defeat the Hulkster on the grand stage of 'Mania and his popularity rivaled Hogan's during this time.

Warrior is survived by his two daughters and his wife Dana. Pro Wrestling Examiner would like to send it's sincere condolences to Warrior’s family, friends and fans.

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Kevin Kellam has been a pro wrestling fan for his whole life.
He hosted and produced the popular "Rumble Radio" show on WXAV 88.3 FM and has worked at several rock radio stations through out the Midwest. . Kevin has degree in Radio from Columbia College. He lives in Chicago and regularly performs stand up and improv comedy. . Contact Kevin with your comments and questions.